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1966 Map of Ellison

Name: 1966 Topographic Map of Ellison
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1981
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1981

About this map

The Humboldt River carves a complex, meandering path through this high desert basin, where the confluence with the Reese River marks a vital hydrologic junction near the Humboldt Co Lander Co line. During this mid-century period, the landscape is defined by the heavy infrastructure of the Western Pacific and Southern Pacific railroads, which run parallel to the river valley. These rail lines supported isolated outposts like Ellison and Mote, serving the regional ranching economy.

Water management is central to life in this arid terrain, evidenced by the numerous irrigation and drainage features such as Herrin Slough, Mcintyre Slough, and a Gaging Station on the riverbank. Ranching operations including the D-L Ranch and 25 Ranch are established along the valley floor, utilizing the seasonal flows of Sheep Creek and Trout Creek. The presence of a Gravel Pit and several benchmark locations like BM 4515 suggest the ongoing maintenance of transportation corridors through this part of Northern Nevada.